The pathway
How you actually get there, here
How you become one varies far more by country than what one does. This is the UK route. Most people take one of these ways in; the right one depends on where you're starting from.
- 1
Senior Manager / Principal Strategist (from within)
3-5 years as a high-performing Global Market Strategy Manager (L5)Skills to master
- Demonstrable track record of leading multiple strategic initiatives, successfully managing a small team (2-3 reports), consistently influencing business unit leaders, and achieving significant P&L impact. You'll need to show you can operate at a more ambiguous, multi-year horizon.
You're ready to move on when
- Consistently exceeds performance expectations as an L5 Manager.
- Has successfully mentored and developed junior team members into more senior roles.
- Proactively identifies and champions new strategic opportunities for the business unit.
- Is sought out by other senior leaders for strategic advice and input.
- Can articulate a clear vision for their business unit's future and how to achieve it.
- 2
Management Consultant (from external)
Typically 10-15 years at a top-tier strategy consulting firm (e.g., McKinsey, Bain, BCG), reaching Principal or Associate Partner level.Skills to master
- Expertise in diverse industries, structured problem-solving, client management, executive communication, and leading large project teams. You'll need to adapt to an 'in-house' role, which is different from advising.
You're ready to move on when
- Has led multiple strategic engagements for global clients, with demonstrable impact.
- Possesses deep functional expertise in market entry, competitive strategy, or GTM.
- Can demonstrate strong team leadership and development capabilities.
- Is comfortable transitioning from an advisory role to an ownership role with direct P&L accountability.
- 3
Head of Strategy (from other large corporations)
12-18 years in a similar Head of Strategy or Director-level role within a large, international technology or FinTech company.Skills to master
- Proven ability to operate at scale, navigate complex organisational politics, manage significant budgets, and drive strategic change in a matrixed environment. You'll need to quickly learn our specific business context and culture.
You're ready to move on when
- Has successfully led a strategy function for a business unit or region of comparable size and complexity.
- Can demonstrate a track record of driving measurable business outcomes through strategic initiatives.
- Possesses strong leadership and team development skills.
- Is adaptable and can quickly integrate into a new corporate culture.